The Gathering at Garst Historical Encampment, July 29-30, 2023, welcomes historian and inventor John Stealey back to the Gathering with his 1783 paper hot air balloons!
He makes each balloon by hand using 50 yards of paper made by a French company whose paper was used in the 1780s for the first air balloons. He sticks the paper together with fish glue and reinforces it with linen thread before drawing designs with black ink. Building each balloon takes about three weeks, but they can only fly for a few days due to wind, dampness, landings, and curious kids.
Over the last five years, Stealey has made 23 balloons and plans to bring five to historic Mount Vernon this fall. During his presentation, Stealey holds the balloon over a smoky fire and fills it with hot air. Once inflated, the balloon rises and Jon releases it, allowing the wind to dictate its course. Stop in and chat; even if the weather does not allow him to fly; his knowledge will astound you. We are pleased to have him back.